New Security Measures in Place to Prevent Identity Theft
and Tax Return Fraud
Montgomery, Nov. 3, 2014—State Revenue
Commissioner Julie P. Magee announces new efforts the Alabama Department
of Revenue is taking to protect taxpayers against identity theft and return
fraud.
“In the
past, our primary responsibility was to efficiently process tax returns and
refunds. Now, due to alarming frequency of identity theft, we must first confirm
the identity of the person filing the return,” said Commissioner Magee. It is
our duty to protect our citizens from criminals who use stolen information to
file fraudulent returns.”
When the
department receives a return it will be processed using new tools intended to
detect possible fraud. “Starting today, we will employ new technology and
processes to confirm the identity of the person filing an income tax return in
our state,” said Commissioner Magee.
Some people will receive a
letter from the Alabama Department of Revenue asking them to complete a short
confirmation quiz used to confirm identity. The request does not mean the
individual is suspected of identity theft or has done anything wrong. The request
is to confirm the person's identity has not been stolen and used to file a
false return.
Once the quiz has been
completed the return will be processed. The quiz can be taken online or by
phone. In 2013, identity theft was the top consumer concern, and protecting
Alabamians has become a major priority
for the state.
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Media contact for more
information:
ADOR Communications Office
Amanda Collier
Telephone: (334) 242-1390; FAX: (334) 242-0550
WEBSITE address: www.revenue.alabama.gov